Home-based Augmented Reality Storybook Training Modules for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability with increasing prevalence worldwide. The main difficulties include poor social interaction and self-regulation skills. Effective interventions are required to improve the social interaction skills and emotional regulation of children with ASD. The present study involved developing and testing the feasibility and short-term efficacy of the home-based augmented reality (AR) training modules for preschool children with ASD. We recruited 15 children with ASD (3 to 5 years old). Wilcoxon signed rank test analysis was used to compare the differences in emotional functioning and adaptive behavior. Children received 8-week home-based AR training modules. Sessions were 20 minutes 4 times a week.

Inclusion Criteria:The inclusion criteria were children who (1) had a disability identification for ASD, (2) were aged 3 to 5 years and 11 months, and (3) scores at or above 30 according to the CARS-2.Exclusion Criteria:The exclusion criteria were children (1) whose nonverbal intelligence quotient was below 85 and (2) who had comorbid diagnoses with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).